Library Assistant (Part-Time)

Part-Time Library Assistant

• Wage Range: $13 to $15 per hour, depending on qualifications
• First review of applicants on November 3, 2025

The City of Algona (pop. 5,487), located in north-central Iowa in the county seat of Kossuth County, is seeking a self-motivated, organized and friendly individual to serve as a Library Assistant for the Algona Public Library. This part-time position, approximately 20 hours per week, will provide excellent customer service and information assistance to the public while helping to create a welcoming library environment. Hours for this position vary and range from 9:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and includes some Saturdays from 9:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Description

The Library Assistant is responsible for performing a wide range of public contact duties including greeting library customers, answering the telephone, and assisting customers in obtaining materials. The Library Assistant will also provide customers with technology assistance and promote library services, products, and events. The Library Assistant helps maintain an orderly, accessible collection and prepares materials for circulation as well as assists in department operations such as opening and closing the library, counting money, emptying book drops and maintaining equipment.

Qualifications

The successful candidate should have excellent customer service skills for all ages, excellent oral and written communication skills, and skills in using current library technology and operating systems. The position requires a high school diploma or equivalent and possession and maintenance of a valid driver’s license. Additional education or library experience is desired. The City of Algona offers competitive wages and a benefits package which includes paid vacation time, sick time, holidays and IPERS.

Application Process

To apply, send a cover letter, resume, and three references to Deputy City Clerk/Human Resources Manager Nancy Lindell at [email protected]. A full job description can be viewed below. The City of Algona is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Library Assistant Job Description

• Position Title: Library Assistant (Clerk) (Part-time)
• Reports To: Director
• Department: Library
  
• FLSA: Non-Exempt

General Summary

This Part-time position provides excellent customer service and information assistance to the public; helps create a welcoming library environment; and collaborates with library team members on various projects.

Essential Job Functions

• Perform a wide range of public contact duties including greeting library customers, answering the telephone, and assisting customers in obtaining materials
• Provide library customers with technology assistance
• Help maintain an orderly, accessible collection and prepare materials for circulation
• Promote library services, products, and events
• Assist in department operations such as opening and closing the library, counting money, emptying book drops, and maintaining equipment
• Assist with building and grounds maintenance and perform light cleaning duties as needed
• Additional duties as assigned

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Self-motivated, organized, and able to work independently
• Excellent customer service skills with all ages
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with a variety of groups and individuals
• Skill in using current library technology and operating systems
• Ability to interpret and apply library policies and procedures
• Ability to count money and make change accurately
• Sufficient clarity of speech and hearing to be able to communicate effectively
• Sufficient vision to be able to create and read library materials
• Sufficient manual dexterity to write legibly, operate a keyboard, and access relevant library materials
• Sufficient mobility to be able to transport materials and equipment
Ability to speak, read and write English proficiently

Education and Experience

• Position requires a high school diploma, additional education or library experience is desired
• Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license.

Working Conditions

• Report to Library Director
• Extensive use of computer and technology
• Extended periods of standing and moving while participating in the completion of various tasks
• Lifting of books and equipment
• Bending and stooping to place or remove material from shelves
• Frequent interruptions while multi-tasking in a fast-paced environment
• Hours are the standard operating hours of the library and include evenings and weekends
• General office conditions
• Blood borne Pathogen Classification- NOT CLASSIFIED: Normal work routine involves no exposure to blood, body fluids, or tissues and the employee may decline to perform tasks which involve a perceived risk without retribution.

If you are a friendly and outgoing individual with an interest in assisting others and building relationships in the community, we’d like to visit with you!

• Library Assistant Job Announcement
  
• Library Assistant Job Description